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Top 10: Views in San Francisco

Here are this journalist’s opinion of the best views in San Francisco. There is a combination of some of the tourist hot spots and some of local flavor. These spots have always held a special place in my heart and are some of the best places to go when I need to relax or appreciate the beauty of the world around me.Some of these sites are better during the day and others at night. These places are great to walk or just sit and take it in. They quiet the mind and remind us just how small we and how trivial our problems really are.

1. Twin peaks (Market Street Side)

One of my Favorite stops of the 49 mile scenic drive around San Francisco and it just happens to be about 5 minutes away from my house. On any clear night you can see all of San Francisco from different spots at the observation area. This One you just can not afford to miss. Hence, its number one the list.

The view from the observation area on Twin Peaks in San Francisco, Calif., on a warm summer night in the city, Sept. 24, 2010. (Photo By Brittney Barsotti)

2. Twin Peaks (Sutro tower side)

The side of Twin Peaks facing out to the ocean is often missed as the signs point towards the observation area. It is just a beautiful, it just doesn’t have the iconic skyline that is often shown in films and television shows.

The backside of twin peaks with Sutro Tower in the foreground at sunset, in San Francisco, Calif., on Feb 5, 2011. This "back side" of twin peaks is often overlooked as the observation deck is in the other side of twin peaks. . (Photo by Brittney Barsotti)

3. Golden Gate Bridge

A tourist favorite that never gets old. Walking across the bridge is an amazing experience, but don’t forget to bring a jacket.

The iconic bridge sits covered in fog. Photo By: Sue Walter

4. Tower @ De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park

The tower is free to everyone, unlike the museum. You can see all of Golden Gate park and most of the City from the 9th floor of this hidden spot in Golden Gate Park, across the way from the California Academy of Sciences.

The view from the De Young Museum looking towards twin Peaks and Sutro Tower. Photo By: cplbasilisk

5. Embarcadero

A great spot walk at any time of day.

The Bay Bridge at sunset though a fountain near the Ferry Building, on the Embarcadero, in San Francisco, Calif., on June 27, 2009.(Photo by Brittney Barsotti)

6. Coit Tower

Another popular tourist spot and for a good reason. On a clear day you can see all the way out to alcatraz.

The view of the bay and Alcatraz from Coit Tower. Photo by:JoshBerglund19

7. Ocean Beach

Any day of the week the parking lot is packed at sunset with locals just sitting back and taking in the view.